What it means
The ECM detects insufficient flow or pressure in the high-load purge line B of the evaporative emissions system. Purge cannot be commanded effectively under high engine load.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The EVAP system routes fuel vapour through purge line B so the engine can burn it instead of releasing it into the atmosphere. This code sets when the engine control module detects that flow or pressure through the high-load purge line B does not meet its expected performance when purge is commanded under high engine load.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Purge line B restricted or kinked
- Purge valve B partially open
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Possible smell of fuel near tank or engine bay
- Failed emissions inspection
- Loose-cap warning may appear
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and purge-command or fuel-trim readings to confirm the fault occurred under high engine load.
- Inspect purge line B along its accessible route for a kink, collapse, blockage, loose connection, or damage.
- Check the purge valve B connector and hoses for poor connections, and inspect whether the valve appears stuck partly open.
- Use a scan tool and the manufacturer's procedure to command purge valve B and check whether the observed flow or pressure responds as expected.
- If the line and valve checks pass, test the line for restriction and the valve for correct operation against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Reconnect a loose purge line B connection.
- Replace a kinked or damaged section of purge line B.
- Clear a confirmed restriction in purge line B.
- Replace purge valve B if testing confirms it is sticking or fails to control flow.
Can I keep driving?
The vehicle is generally drivable if it runs normally, but arrange diagnosis because a purge fault can affect emissions and may cause a fuel-vapour smell. If you smell strong fuel vapour or see a leak, stop driving and address the leak promptly.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.